Rakhi Sawant summoned by Maharashtra cyber cell amid ‘India’s Got Latent’ controversy

The Maharashtra cyber cell has summoned Rakhi Sawant to appear for questioning on February 27 in connection with the ongoing investigation into controversial remarks made by YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia on the YouTube show ‘India’s Got Latent’. While Sawant was not part of the panel in the episode featuring Allahbadia, she has previously been a guest on the show, which is created and hosted by comedian Samay Raina.

The controversy erupted after Ranveer Allahbadia’s comments in one of the show’s episodes were deemed obscene and offensive, leading to multiple FIRs across various states, including Maharashtra and Assam. In response, the Maharashtra cyber cell has launched an extensive probe, summoning not just Allahbadia but also Ashish Chanchlani and other key figures associated with the production of the show. Chanchlani and Allahbadia have been called to record their statements on February 24, while Raina, the show’s creator, was previously issued a summons for February 18 but failed to appear. His request for an extension until March 17 was denied, and he has now been reissued a second summons.

Authorities have taken strict action against the show, ordering the removal of all episodes under investigation and temporarily deactivating the show’s official account until the inquiry is concluded. Inspector General (IG) Yashasvi Yadav confirmed that an FIR has been registered against all members involved in the controversial episodes. The first video in question was taken down, and comedian Samay Raina was directed to remove all related content, highlighting the seriousness of the charges.

The Supreme Court has also weighed in on the matter, granting interim protection from arrest to Ranveer Allahbadia while simultaneously condemning him for his remarks. The court remarked that Allahbadia’s comments reflected something “very dirty in his mind,” underscoring the severity of the issue. The legal proceedings have drawn nationwide attention, with many questioning the accountability of content creators and the impact of online shows on public discourse.

So far, a total of 42 individuals have been summoned by the Maharashtra cyber cell, including artists, producers, and influencers associated with the show. The controversy has also led to public debates about freedom of speech versus content regulation, with social media platforms flooded with divided opinions on the matter. While some argue that the crackdown on the show is justified, others believe it raises concerns over creative expression and censorship in digital media.